Day 28 — Bidding farewell

Texas A&M University senior Sabina Sheppard of San Antonio is in Belize for a month studying veterinary medicine with a group of American students. She will file periodic entries about her experiences.

It’s hard to believe, but it is time to say a bittersweet goodbye to Belize.

There are things back home that I am really looking forward to, such as seeing my family and friends, my bed, hot showers, clean tap water. I’ve almost forgotten what it was like to spend an entire day not reeking of insect repellant, sweat and sunscreen. But I will certainly miss Belize, nonetheless.

My experience here has been life-changing for several reasons. I have gained knowledge in veterinary medicine and the practices used in a foreign country. I also learned a significant amount about a culture that up until January, I did not even know existed.

Although I was rather skeptical at first, I have grown to love the city of San Ignacio and the rare kindness of its residents. I wish I could bring the relaxed mentality of Belize back with me to the U.S. No one here is ever in a hurry or pressures you to feel rushed.

Most of all, it is going to be tough bidding farewell to the 25 amazing students I have spent the last month with. Each one of them has made an impact in my life. It takes a lot of courage to come to a foreign country with uncertain expectations, but I recommend studying abroad to anyone considering it. The education you obtain is invaluable. Not only do you learn about the world we live in, but you learn a great deal about yourself.